Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Guide to Winter Motoring - For Van Owners Everywhere

Driving your van through the winter months can be more or less as safe as any other time providing you take some additional precautions, carry out regular vehicle safety checks and adapt your driving when necessary. However, there are generally more driving hazards in the winter so it is advisable to check your van insurance is as comprehensive as necessary and covers all possible scenarios.

There are a number of extra things you should keep in your van in winter including: an additional battery and charger for your mobile phone, sunglasses to counter low sun glare, a shovel, some sacking, a blanket, extra clothes, a high visibility vest, tow ropes, jump leads, a warning triangle, a first aid kit and medication if you need it. These things may all be useful and some may even save your life if conditions become severe.

The condition of your vehicle is important and it may be worth having a pre-winter service. Tyres, in particular, are important to check. If the tread is too low that could increase your braking time at an already potentially slippery time of year. Make sure your brake lights and fog light are working, but only use your fog light when it is actually foggy as it can reduce the visibility of your brake lights if used unnecessarily. Other checks should include topping up your radiator with anti freeze, making sure the screen wash is full, and checking that your windscreen wipers are in good condition.

If it is icy it is essential that all your windows and mirrors are cleared to maximize visibility so keep a scraper and deicer in your van. In wet conditions braking time is doubled and in snowy or icy conditions it can increase by as much as ten times. Increase your distance from the vehicle in front as a general precaution in the winter months. In wet or icy conditions any kind of manouvering, turning or braking should be done as smoothly and gently as possible to avoid skids. It is generally not advisable to drive through floods, but if it is not too deep then it helps to stay in first gear and keep your revs up by using the clutch to avoid stalling. Be sure to slowly apply the brakes a few times afterwards to clear excess water.

You should only go out in snow if strictly necessary, and if it is likely to be a regular occurrence then invest in some snow chains. If you are trapped in snow unexpectedly then try to clear it from your wheels and then put your sack under the stuck wheels to get you out, or at least to safer, firmer ground. In general, when in snow driving in a higher gear than usual will help you avoid wheel spin. Should you be stranded in snow then get out of (but stay with) your vehicle and put up a red triangle to warn other road users. Call breakdown services and use your blanket and extra clothes; run your engine for ten minutes every hour if you need to make use of the heater.

If having taken all possible precautions, you still fall foul of the conditions, you need to be sure you are covered by your van insurance. Next time you renew your van insurance make sure that it covers all eventualities that may occur at any time of year, but especially in the winter. Cheap van insurance is widely available and should include features such as full breakdown cover, including home start, recovery following an accident, 30-day European cover, legal expenses cover and a like-for-like vehicle should you need it.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:45 AM   0 Comments

Cheap Ford Galaxy – Perfect if You’re Visiting a Fortune Teller

I have a few irrational fears: spiders, which counts me out of “I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!” when I’m a z-list celebrity, hospitals, even when I’m just visiting someone and finally carnival folk. On the latter, I have no doubt that the majority of carnival folk have skills that merit being able to travel from country to country performing to packed big tops, it’s just the ‘kooky’ nature that makes me feel uneasy and their games where you can win “A Cheap Ford!” but never do. As for clowns, well they’re just damn scary aren’t they?

What possessed me then just go to a carnival, but last week to join in and 'fun' I never know. Needless to say I left with a wallet full of cash stuffed and left with empty hands and with the lighter wallet known to man. Before the left, but went to see a fortune teller. Now you do not have to be a reader of my articles I do not like being told when things are going to happen, I am comfortable and let things take their course. The fortune teller was very authentic, but with its Homebase shop with table and chairs, carpets and rugs right crystal ball that I'm sure I saw at Toys R Us.

No matter, I crossed his palm with silver and left with a feeling of my hand. It was then I realized that I had terribly dry Chappe hands of a man of my age and I really should buy some moisturizer. No matter, continued unabated and he told me what was in store for me in life. I'm currently single, have a good job, which is slow and a fast car loving family. Life, therefore, is quite good, although not a Lamborghini Gallardo Olga Kurylenko and not improve.

The fortune teller advised that unfortunately the Italian metal or the latest Bond girl would be arriving at my door, but I guess that 2009 is the year not only to find love, but have the first of a bunch of guys too . Blimey. Although when I'm deeply in December 2009 and I am holding a baby while writing this I will give you credit, but I do think that if I had a big family and had to choose a car to fit them all in.

Obviously, the days of the elegant two-door coupe is gone and I will be in MPV territory. There are a number to choose from, but my favorite has to be cheap Ford Galaxy. Do not be discouraged by me in writing 'cheap' is not much more to get high-quality metal for your investment with a Ford you will be ill-advised to go elsewhere.

The Galaxy is available with a gasoline engine of 2 liters of diesel or the route offering 1.8 or 2 liters of derivatives. Personally, the 2 liters of diesel would be my choice, with a frugal 43.4mpg and the latter because the Galaxy is surprisingly light (well, compared to an elephant), the 140bhp giving a top speed of 119 mph and a quick 9.9 seconds up to 60 mph.

Of course, the practice is a priority in buying an MPV and Ford presume there are 31 cubby-holes in the Galaxy. I have not had time to count them all when I was in the car, but I will take your word for it - there's a lot. There is seating for seven as is de rigueur for any self-respect MPV, with the two rear seats that offer ample room for a six-foot like me, despite being in the boot.

The best news for me and Olga karts when we are children to school and soccer is that, despite the Galaxy to be a great seven seats, driving superbly. The wind took the car on roads that have been tested are other sports to its limits. With the Galaxy took the curves on their way with minimal body roll.

My only minor criticism is that Ford claims that the Galaxy is to promote "travel first class." I have not experienced first-class as much as I would, but I know that when I flew to Chicago and traveled first to London, in the inelegant certainly was not the diesel rattle in front of me.

Therefore, it is - the best car for me and Olga Kurylenko is cheap Ford Galaxy. Place the pot in love I'm hungry.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:45 AM   0 Comments

New Insignia at Your Vauxhall Dealer

If you could find out the exact date of your death would you want to know? I mean if you knew that you would live to 95 you could take things easy, spread out everything you wanted to achieve and see and accomplish everything. The downside of course is that if you found out it was going to be next week you went pop you’d probably rather not know. Admittedly you might be able to jump in a hired Ferrari, blast to the south of France and lose your house in a Monte Carlo Casino but the fear of the following week would probably be all too consuming. It’s a similar problem with the global financial crisis in so much as we all know it’s going to collapse, just when? Yet despite all this, your local Vauxhall dealer has a new car to offer and it’s an important one, the replacement for the Vectra – the Insignia.

Before we visit the Vauxhall dealer though, a word on the financial crisis and just who is going to buy the new Insignia. Being the short-sighted person I am, the ‘credit crunch’ as the government have dubbed it has resulted in my mortgage payments reducing dramatically and me having spare cash for once. This of course is a good thing. However once I delved a bit deeper, the future looks bleak I’m afraid. The government are saying it is a blip and we will recover from it and I’m sure we will in time, but high street bankers aren’t predicting the slowdown of the early nineties or the Wall Street crash of 1929, but something Arnold Schwarzenegger knows all about – End of Days.

I kid you not; the financial crisis is the equivalent of a large meteor heading straight for Earth and with no Bruce Willis to save us, do we really want to know? With the UK reducing Value Added Tax we hope things will stabilise themselves, but as more household names on the high street close, job losses will mount. With mounting job losses bad debt will increase, putting more pressure on the banks that can’t afford it and they in turn will collapse. The trouble in America had a massive impact on Europe and most notably the UK, so imagine what happens when it reaches our shores – Woolworths closing will be a mere speck in the debris of the financial collapse.

Happy New Year everyone. No I mean it. You see in light of the above I’ve decided that what is coming is inevitable and therefore I’ve attached the blinkers and like death and the meteor I don’t want to know. I suggest you do the same and seriously consider that trip to your Vauxhall dealer because the Insignia is one hell of a car. I’m a fan of Vauxhall of recent years, but the Vectra was a horrible car; soulless and outperformed in almost every area by its rivals. The Insignia however is the polar opposite, with class leading styling, drivability and performance.

As we know the Vectra and the Ford Mondeo were the fleet cars of choice for companies throughout the UK that may very well go bankrupt in 2009. The Insignia I’m sure was set to become the lead in the fleet car market, but I honestly believe it is too good to be just a car to be driven for a few years and then swapped for a newer version. It deserves to be bought from the Vauxhall dealer and made part of the family.

For a start it has been voted European Car of the Year 2009. Now I’m sure there were some disagreements in choice (we all know how hard it is to get Europe to agree on anything) but the Insignia was the resounding winner and rightly so. It looks unlike anything else in the Vauxhall range, the V-shaped front grill is gone, the edges are curved rather than angular – it is now a real contender stylistically with Audi, BMW, Lexus and Mercedes. It looks low like a coupe, but weirdly is actually taller than the outgoing Vectra.

To drive the ride is sporty but never harsh and the steering is responsive and certainly on a par with the latest Mondeo, which is widely regarded as being class-leading. The interior is my only area for concern – it’s practical and looks beautiful whilst retaining functionality but many bits and pieces seem to have been put together using old plastic bottles. There are so many plus points to this car however that this criticism can be likened to a jumbo jet losing a cup holder – it’s really not going to make any discernable difference to an otherwise excellent machine.

So make sure your blinkers are firmly attached, nip to your Vauxhall dealer and party like it’s 1999.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:45 AM   0 Comments

Scorpion Motorcycle Helmets

Do you love to go biking? Do you own a nice manly motorbike? Missing something - a helmet maybe?

We all know it’s rather nice a feeling when you are riding that bike and the wind flows through your hair, but if you weren’t aware, we’d tell you, it’s at a great risk that you do so. Buy a helmet, even if it’s expensive, because in the end, it might end up saving you from mind boggling hospital expenses.

Well, ever ended up looking for cheaper helmets without the DOT label of approval? Those are just junks since they are flimsy and won’t be able to save lives! Learn to compromise and learn that money can buy you safety. Look around and we’re sure you’ll get one that suits your needs. Read on to find out more about Scorpion motorcycle helmets…

So what do Scorpion Helmets have that other brands don’t have?

One motorcycle helmet you can rely on is the Scorpion motorcycle helmet. Why? The prices are affordable and the quality is the best you’ll get in the market. Scorpion manufactures products that are mainly helmets. They use the best designers in the business to design those motorcycle helmets so they are as good as custom made ones! The materials used are highly durable and of the highest quality and several special processes are used to produce things that’ll not only last longer, but also be within the safety levels and standards.

Scorpion manufactures entire helmets themselves, without allowing any outsourcing or subcontracting. The helmets are all produced and made to last, in their own plant, therefore, each step in its making is carefully monitored and kept under strictly controlled conditions to yield the finest helmets you’ve ever worn!

So how do they make them?

Most helmets these days are manufactured so that they don’t break or shatter on impact. Scorpion uses Kevlar matrix shell or fiberglass. There’s a DOT label or Snell 2000 certification lined on the chin bar, which allow you to check for authenticity. These helmets are seriously a great buy. If you want to know one other further feature that’ll make you go ‘Wow’ we’ll tell you about the anti-fog functions that Scorpion motorcycle helmets boast.

The Scorpion helmets are manufactured mainly in China but are designed and inspected in the United States. The inner layering of the helmets is made of the highest quality fabric. The fabric absorbs the moisture from the forehead and the in-built ventilation system allows air to flow freely so that you don’t suffocate. This’ll keep you cool and fresh.

Characteristics of the Scorpion that Put Them a World Apart from the Rest

The helmet is a bit heavy when compared to other ones, but it’s always worth it, especially when you look at the safety features you are being offered. When you wear it, it should fit you perfectly and be sealed properly. How do you realize if it’s been sealed correctly? Well, there’ll be good drop in the ordinary levels of sound when you’re cruising.

You should feel satisfied and assured that when you buy a Scorpion helmet, it’s the world’s best motorcycling helmet! It’s really worth the money! Of course, if you want to make it last, you have to make some efforts to maintain it.

Get a pair of great motorcycling boots to go with that helmet, and be the center of attraction, even on the roads!

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posted by auto shine @ 1:42 AM   0 Comments

Know Your Gasoline Powered Small Engine

Of large industries to the average home, small power gasoline engines are widely used to complete tasks large and small worldwide. Lawnmowers, pumps and air compressors are among the most popular computer that uses this mechanism. Also able to ATV, motorcycles, scooters and some light aircraft. Mechanics for the home, knowing the basics of a gasoline engine power can help keep your team better and help you trouble shoot potential problems that may arise.

What is a small gasoline engine Powered?

These systems are also known as an internal combustion engine. To run these engines, a spark created when the ignition is switched on creates an explosion, which comes into contact with gasoline in the combustion chamber. Gasoline is a slow burning fuel, which becomes explosive when mixed with air. This explosion is what gives the engine power. There are a number of parts within the engines that make this process work efficiently.

Small Engine Components

1. Fuel System

The fuel system consists of several components. The fuel tank stores the fuel until it enters the carburetor. A fuel pump removes the gasoline through a fuel line on the carburetor. The carburetor mixes then the volume of air and gas in proportion to create the necessary energy. Inside the carburetor, a small filter contains small particles of dirt and sediment that can clog or dirty fuel.

A primer is used to inject a small amount of extra gasoline in the carburetor fuel to create a more intense and stronger spark. This is typically used when weather conditions are cool or small motor vehicle has been sitting for a long period of time.

2. The ignition system

Combustion can not take place if the spark needed to create the condition was not lighted. The ignition produces a high voltage spark which initiates combustion necessary to start the engine. A battery that is used to trigger a spark plug and this provides the catalyst in which current can flow.

3. Cylinder Block

The combustion takes place in the cylinder block. Within the combustion chamber, the heat released by the chemical reaction that creates an atmosphere of gas pressure. As this pressure pushes the pistons of the engine, causing the crankshaft to rotate.

4. The Cooling System

Due to the large amount of fuel pressure and the reactions, small gasoline engines produce a lot of heat. To keep them running efficiently a cooling system must be in place. These engines are cooled by means of metal fins that push fresh air throughout the system. Bearings are also used to reduce the amount of friction in the engine, thereby reducing the amount of heat generated when it is running. In addition, regular maintenance, including cleaning oil filters and keep the engine heat and the efficiency of the machine.

There's so much more you can learn about the inner workings of a small gasoline engine. However, the basic mechanics of these machines can be broken down some basics in the construction of motor vehicles. What everyone should remember about the small motors is as follows: Take the time to understand the basic operation of your lawn mower, golf cart, motorcycle, snow mobile or other small motor vehicles in order to maintain and prevent better future crises.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:42 AM   0 Comments

The Latest Volkswagen

This week I’ve been asked to review a Volkswagen of my choosing and after much deliberation I’ve decided on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560/4. No I haven’t gone mad, you see Lamborghini is owned by Audi who are owned by Volkswagen so in essence all Lambos are the Italian lovechild from a German partnership. It was also an opportunity I couldn’t pass up following me cashing my cheque to a track day which allowed me to get behind the wheel of one.

The reason I’ve always liked Lamborghini is what they stand for: raw power and noise, crazy styling and their ability to make you feel eight years old all over again. As a child I grew up with the largest hardback book of cars you’ve ever seen. I remember there were only 100 cars in the book, but for some reason every page was the size of a house. To be honest even at a mere eight years old, the majority of the cars looked dated even when newly released. Ferrari was going through a slump, the Delorean was made of tinfoil and no disrespect to the French, but the Venturi was hardly a supercar thoroughbred.

However there were two pages of the book of real interest and they lovingly featured the Lamborghinis Countach and Diablo. The former looked like a Transformer halfway between being robot and vehicle, with its half open vents, angular styling and larger rear wheels making the front bumper burrow through the tarmac. The Diablo as with the Countach had doors that opened to the heavens rather than in the conventional manner and was the first Lambo to achieve 200mph. Both wouldn’t have looked out of place with rocket launchers and wings on them and from that moment on, Lamborghini were the dream car maker for me.

It’s safe to assume then that my day driving the Gallardo was a slightly exciting one. Looking back at the Countach and Diablo they were unwieldy machines that didn’t top any reliability surveys and this played on my mind a tad, not so much the reliability, but the fact I’d end up in a hedge backwards at 150mph thanks to poor handling. The amazing thing however is this: since Volkswagen have taken over the company and used their engineering resources (Audi included) the Gallardo is not only the most beautiful car they’ve made, but it’s so easy to drive quickly even an oaf like me can do it.

Ok let’s prove that fact with some statistics. My current car has a 1.6 litre engine, an asthmatic 111bhp and a 0-60mph time of 11 seconds. I am used to driving this and am aware it is painfully slow, but to compare that to a 5.2 litre, 552bhp 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds Gallardo is simply scary. Not willing to show my fear to the instructor however, I did the usual laps in slower cars to practice the racing line and then I was ready to go.

The version I drove had the additional benefit of having a flappy paddle gearbox so all I had to do was pull up on the paddle on the right hand side of the steering wheel to change up a gear and do the same on the left to change back down. As you’d expect from a car that does 0-60mph “faster than you can say this sentence out loud” the gears required changing frequently. If you’re hoping I’m building up to a big crescendo, complete with big crash you’ll be disappointed I’m afraid. The gear changes were as smooth as silk, the roar from the V10 was heavenly and the steering was perfectly balanced. I’ve driven many Lamborghinis on the PlayStation and although it sounds idiotic to say so, the real experience, although far more exciting and involving was no scarier than lying on the sofa, pressing go on the controller.

There should be no other car on an eight year olds’ wall than the Gallardo, it is stunning to behold – angles suit a car far more than curves I’ve decided. The front bumper is my personal favourite feature with two huge air intakes ready to eat anything they encounter. The doors may now open conventionally but the spirit of Lamborghini coarses through every vein of the Gallardo. The cost of this magnificent creature is a mere £143, 350. Ok so maybe the car isn’t perfect after all, but for the six people who will buy one in the next decade, it’ll be money well spent.

I wish Volkswagen would buy my car.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:42 AM   0 Comments

Buying a Used Car?

Buying a used car is a mine field. Firstly you need to weigh up what you want, then you need to work out how much it’ll cost you so the nice granny that’s only done three miles in ten years in her Toyota doesn’t fleece you. Once you’ve sorted that, you then have the worry whether the nice old lady has actually stolen the car and the police will repossess it within minutes of you parting with your cash. Next there’s the issue of whether the engine will erupt in a mushroom cloud of smoke a week later or that the floor has been welded to another cars chassis and is a write off.

Of course there are advantages to buying a used car, most notably the £££’s you’ll save thanks to the original owner essentially throwing a few thousand pound down the drain in depreciation as they drive away from the showroom for the first time. This is the situation I am hoping to find myself in very shortly. Yes the time has come for me to part with my beloved Hyundai Coupe and I think that after many months of deliberation I’ve decided on my new muse.

Now those of you that regularly read my articles will smugly be sitting knowing what car it is I’ve fallen in love with. It’ll obviously be the car I hark on about all the time as being the best value, best performance, best styling and driving package – the Honda Civic Type R. In fact I may very well have declared previously “I will buy a Honda Civic Type R next” so not too cryptic then. So the fact that I’m going to buy something else will probably come as a surprise and cement my reputation as being untrustworthy – my apologies.

Having driven a coupe for the last four years, I’ve rather enjoyed being a paradox to the usual coupe driver demographic – hairdresser or a man going through a mid-life crisis. Therefore I’ve decided to continue down the coupe route and having exhausted the now-extensive list of options available, I’m going for a Mazda RX8. The best thing about this is the fact I can write about the Wankel engine and not get in trouble.

Stop sniggering because despite the embarrassing name, the Wankel, or more commonly termed ‘rotary’ engine is as impressive an engineering achievement as the pyramids. Well, that or a Corby trouser press. I doubt you’re reading this explanation through your laughter, but put simply the engine works by rotating a triangular piston in a vaguely circular cylinder. What that results in is the smoothest engine available and one that can rev up to 9000rpm. So despite the engine being a 1.3 litre in ‘normal’ terms, it naturally produces 231bhp and as you skyrocket past 7000rpm you’ll be met with a similar scene to when they make the jump to hyperspace in Star Trek.

Unlike the majority of coupes available, the RX8 is rear wheel drive so it is perfectly balanced and handles just beautifully. So whilst the front wheels do the steering and the rear ones do the driving, you have time to plant your right foot and watch everything go blurry again, or admire the interior. The car I drove was so clad in leather I thought I’d taken a wrong turn and ended up in Soho. In fact the car belies the fact it’s from Japan – a car building nation renowned for reliability and speed but not flair. Not so with the RX8, both internally and externally the car is drop-dead-gorgeous.

It’s a bit like trying to explain a Monet painting without being in front of it, but trust me it is jaw-dropping. The rear light clusters are see-through a la the Lexus IS200, the bonnet bulges like the engine is trying to escape and I’ve not got to the best bit yet. Normally coupes have the most inaccessible rear seats known to man. The RX8 has hidden rear doors that open on reverse hinges that alleviate this problem without spoiling the cars side profile.

This isn’t to say the car is as practical as a hatchback because it’s still got the coupe features of a tiny boot and a front bumper so low it will scrape up snow in the winter and small woodland animals in the summer. Despite this and despite the horrendous petrol bills I will be faced with (25mpg!!!) the Mazda RX8 is the used car for me. Four year old versions are now below the £10,000 mark and for that you get one of the best cars of the new millennium.

Affording the petrol won’t be a problem either - I’m looking forward to my diet of baked beans for breakfast, lunch and supper.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:40 AM   0 Comments

Individuality is Over-rated - Buy a Used Ford Focus

At any one time, in any city of the United Kingdom you care to choose, at least one hundred thousand drivers will be slightly irritated by the intermittent beep of the Ford Focus’ ‘the door is open’ / ’you haven’t done up your seat belt’ / ‘it’s a bit cold outside’ tone. They may also be bored to tears with the plain interior, the uninspiring plastics and the general feeling of ennui that envelops any Focus owner. So why on Earth do people keep buying them?

Ford’s tradition for outselling the competition has slipped slightly on an international scale. The Ford dynasty now sits 4th in the table of highest selling car manufacturers behind Toyota, General Motors and Volkswagen despite holding second place for something close to a million years. This has probably got more to do with globalisation, out-sourcing and recession as opposed to Ford making a colossal engineering boob. Nevertheless, it’s an interesting statistic considering that the Ford Focus is absolutely everywhere!

If you stand on any high street during an average Saturday afternoon, you will be passed by a variation on the Focus theme roughly twice every second. I use the term ‘variation on the Focus theme’ as Ford have pulled the oldest car engineering trick out of the bag; by adding a couple of letters to the Focus badge, you can release a new edition and extend the car’s lifespan limitlessly. Nobody actually knows (or cares) what “Zetec”, “ST”, or “C-MAX” actually means, but they continue to buy the Focus in droves. Their only minor concern is that is costs an extra £12 to get an ashtray and a cigarette lighter fitted.

The reason why the Ford Focus outnumbers people by at least nine to one in this country is a relatively simple twofold paradigm; the Focus provides quality and value for money. In many ways it is the automotive equivalent of Tesco; popping up here and there in a stealthy manner, hoping no one will notice that it is slowly taking over the world.

In these economically dire times, the public are demanding the best possible vehicle for the lowest possible price. The days of affluence, reckless spending and an insistence on remaining de rigeur at all times are long gone. Here to stay are the days of huddling round a solitary burning coal for warmth, eating cold beans to save on energy bills and wearing your grandmother’s hand-me-downs because you can no longer afford Levi’s.

So while we’re irretrievably sinking beneath the gloomy waters of a global recession, why not drive a car that is great quality for money, cheap to maintain and the best performer for its class? It may not be exciting…or fashionable, but it’s the Focus and it might just be the best you can afford. The 1.8 Petrol and 2.0 Diesel also better 50 mpg so it’s an ecologically sound vehicle as well.

For me, however, the Focus really shines when you put it to the test. I was fortunate enough to scare my family during a road trip around the Cheshire countryside in a Focus 1.6 Zetec (a relatively standard model). I was extremely surprised by how the Focus hugged the corners as my mother screamed in the back. I laughed as the engine roared from 0-60 in less than ten seconds, whilst my father put his hand over his eyes and wept. I exhaled in wonder as the Focus slalomed round the wooded scenery whilst my dog howled in terror. The point is; as the driver I never once felt like I was not completely in control. My family were in fear of their lives, but I was as calm and collected as I could imagine.

For less than £10,000 you will easily be able to find a used Focus, with great spec and much better performance than its closest competitors (Citroen C4, Vauxhall Astra and the Volkswagen Golf). So in true form, Ford have manufactured a car that won’t ever be considered ‘cool’, ‘hip’ or any other trendy adjective you choose to bandy about, but what they have done is create a car for the masses. The Ford Focus is a success that speaks for itself.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:40 AM   0 Comments

The Super Sirion

There has been a lot of buzz lately… about what… I hear you ask….. The Credit Crunch…America’s new president…eemm yes but also about….. ‘The Super Sirion’ …. Some say “This car is like economical aid in time of financial crisis!” There has been a lot of talk about this little gem of a car. Recently Daihatsu quoted there are 5 Reasons to buy a Sirion.

1)Established Reliability 2)Spend Less – money on petrol 3)Save More on Road Fund Licence – Sirion is only £35.00 annual tax 4)Low Emissions 5)Free 5 Year warranty and 5 Year Road Side Assistance

But also:

1) The Sirion is made by the Top 3 most reliable car manufacturers as published in the Which? Car Awards 2008

2) The Sirion is sold by Daihatsu who were voted as one of the top 3 car brands for sales and service as published in the Which? Car Awards 2008.

3) Daihatsu was voted as one of the top 4 car brands as published in the Which? Car Awards 2008

4) The Daihatsu Sirion was voted as one of the best 5 superminis for reliability as published in the Which? Car Awards 2008

So why is the Sirion so super? Well let me present the facts then you can make up your own mind.

• When Daihatsu set about making the Sirion their goal was simple but challenging, to make a small car with the highest standards of interior space and equipment, but at the same time incorporating advanced engine technology and body design to give low fuel consumption figures and CO2 emissions.

• The Sirion has been specifically designed to provide more space, more equipment, more manoeuvrability, and more economy than any other car in its class, with minimum impact on the environment. It has a distinctive style that sets it apart. You can see it in every line and curve and appreciate it from every angle.

• Stylish and compact and with its small turning circle it’s easy to drive and manoeuvre. And with its intelligent design has a shorter engine compartment to give an unexpectedly big interior. Add the flexible seating and load layout, air conditioning (standard on all models) and a CD/Radio/MP3 audio system and you have a great car that is a pleasure to drive and own. The Sirion really is one car that meets most needs.

• It looks good from the outside and also on the inside. There is a great range of models available to suit everyone. From the frugal but spirited 1.0 litre the added power of the 1.3 litre or the flagship 1.5 litre SX.

• The Sirion is very compact great for parking spaces. It has a shorter turning circle than other cars in its class.

• The Sirion is Modern, funky, Spacious, Versatile, Comfortable, Stylish, Manoeuvrable, goes anywhere, fits in anywhere, safe but most importantly to some in the current financial climate – Economical not on petrol but Road Fund Tax set at just £35.00 per year.

• A quick inspection of the Sirion demonstrates the famous Japanese build quality. Look closer and you’ll notice the contrast between sharp, shape-defining lines and gentle, aerodynamic curves that together create a distinctive, modern profile.

• The Sirion has comfortable space in abundance. And just to make sure that you are really comfortable all Sirions are equipped with a height adjustable steering column and with the exception of the 1.0s, they all have driver’s seat height adjustment.

• The Sirion is full of equipment that has been sensibly designed. Take the radio/CD Player for instance. No more groping for tiny buttons to change channels. No more looking for the volume control. The integrated radio/CD player has large, easy to see and easy to use controls.

• Every Sirion also has air conditioning, electric power steering, electric windows front and rear, driver, passenger and side airbags, ABS with EBD – the list goes on.

• In addition to the odometer and trip meter the current or average fuel consumption can be displayed on the LCD panel for your information.

• Other features include: Illuminated electric window switches, centre storage tray and box, Front floor console bottle holders, ipod/Mp3 connectivity, integrated audio system. The Sirion comes in 7 colours. All stylish and sleek.

• Seats – Rear Seat Reclining Mode – The right and left split rear seat both offer a reclining backrest that allows rear passengers to relax and enjoy a more comfortable drive.

• Luggage Mode – When the rear seatbacks are folded forward the luggage capacity is increased giving maximum luggage space for two people going on a long trip. When the rear luggage space will comfortably accommodate two fully-loaded golf bags, a 60/40 split folding rear seat may seem almost superfluous. But if you ever need to carry something extra long or luggage this comes in handy!

• The Engine – the 1.5 litre Sirion is powerful with twin Camshafts, 16 valves and dynamic variable valve timing makes sure that performance is optimised, together with fuel consumption and emissions. The engine of the Sirion 1.5 SX produces a respectable output of 102 bhp. For the manual gearbox this gives a brisk acceleration figure of 0-62 mph in 10.5 seconds. Fuel consumption is still an economical 45.6 mpg on the combined cycle whilst C02 emissions remain low at 145g/km. The self regenerating super intelligent catalyst also enhances its environment credentials. So the Sirion 1.5 SX isn’t a guilty pleasure – just a sheer pleasure to drive.

• For safety Daihatsu have designed this cars body with Impact Absorbing body. The cabin is protected by an advanced shock absorbing structure and the brake and clutch pedals are designed not to intrude into the cabin in event of a collision. There is a SRS Airbag system in place to protect against collision. There is skid control and Traction Control system in place along with Brake Assist, Brake Mechanism and there is an Anti-Lock Braking with EBD on all models.

• Additional Features on a range of models: chrome plated inside door handle, black rear light housing, side skirts, rear spoiler 8 spoke alloy wheels can be ordered instead of 5 and so on.

So now make up your mind

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posted by auto shine @ 1:40 AM   0 Comments

Volvo - Impossible to Crash?

Ok time for my weekly rant. Today I was driving a considerable distance to have my eyes tested (my uncle is my optician but I won’t bore you with the details) which in itself was going to take up a considerable percentage of the day. This is of course before you factor in the traffic police, their procedures and rubber neckers. Yep some unfortunate fellow in a Volvo appeared to have had an altercation with another Volvo driver and the grass verge alongside the motorway was littered with more Swedish parts than Ikea.

Thankfully both drivers were fine, but then they would be in a Volvo. After all safety and Volvo go together like speed and Ferrari. Not as exciting I grant you, but I know which I’d rather be in when I plough into a tree at 70mph. Anyhow, I digress. My issue today was not with the accident itself – it wasn’t deliberate, hence why they’re called accidents – but with the traffic police that decided that despite only half of the slow lane being affected they’d close the entire motorway.

Surely common sense would say that once the police arrived on the scene with both drivers not picking their limbs up from the central reservation, that at most a single lane should be cordoned off, therefore slowing the traffic down, but keeping it flowing all the same whilst the debris was cleared. Not so, in fact I waited for two hours whilst the police flashed their lights and sat in their cars, before we were allowed to get going again.

Of course once the first few rows of cars set off, the rest wanted to see all there was to see and crawled past the stricken vehicles at 1mph, straining their necks and mumbling to themselves. Now I’d understand your scepticism about how I know so much about the crash if I: a) wasn’t involved and b) didn’t strain a look myself. Valid point made, however whilst I was stuck to the car in fronts bumper at 1mph screaming for him to get a move on, it was pretty hard not to see the situation as I went past.

Not content with saving the lives of those that do have shunts like the above, Volvo now believe they can stop a crash happening at all. At first I thought this was a coded message that they were the latest victim of the credit crunch and there’d be no more cars to buy. Quite the opposite. The new Volvo XC60 is a soft-roader (that’ll be a 4 x 4 that goes on the school run but no-where else) that aims to keep the company streets ahead of its rivals who have caught up with their prized safety technology.

To outline just how much Volvo prioritises safety, the company were the first to fit head restraints, three point seatbelts, child locks, seatbelt reminder buzzers and daytime running lights. Volvo also employed a research division to visit every crash within a hundred mile distance of the factory in Sweden to analyse what had hurt the occupants in the crash and what could be done to prevent it from happening again. Their latest breakthrough clearly is not a fad.

The system in the XC60 is called City Safety and it involves sensors on the car that will automatically start the car braking if the distance to the car in front gets worryingly close. Just remember the system is called City Safety because it is intended to work at 20mph or below, so don’t use this as an endorsement to show off to your friends that your car will brake unassisted because you’ll more than likely end up in the back of the car in front until you read the handbook. That said, car insurers are considering a 25% discount to all XC60 owners, so confident are they that the technology will be a success.

There are also amber lights on the mirrors that flash like crazy if you stray out of lane – an enhancement on Citroen’s idea which involved the drivers’ seat vibrating which no doubt led to many women deliberately straying out of lane. It’s refreshing that in a car world where electronic developments are normally reserved for quicker gear changes or more bass on your Sat Nav/In-car Cinema/Gaming Console optional extra, that Volvo have put their knowledge to something that could very well revolutionise road safety.

Hopefully they’ll reward their current customers with a few versions to trial. I can recommend two drivers in need of new Volvos…

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posted by auto shine @ 1:38 AM   0 Comments

The Volkswagen Polo - The Elder Statesman of the Supermini

The Volkswagen Polo is one of the elder statesmen of the Supermini market; remaining stoic in its refusal to disappear from forecourts across the land. After over 30 years on our roads, the Polo is still seen on every high street the length and breadth of the country. It’s available in hatchback, coup

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posted by auto shine @ 1:38 AM   0 Comments

Volkswagen Golf – An Inexplicable Enigma

It is a common belief that the Volkswagen Golf is the epitome of a cool car, style, performance and an impressive history of every firm in a very favorable with the general public. Since its introduction in 1974, the Golf has walked a precarious tightrope that the great engine, but at a reasonable price. When you put some thought into that, however, I must question the credibility of Golf. Let me take you through my thoughts and see if I can convince them.

I have nothing but memories of the Volkswagen Golf. My grandfather owned a dark blue 1984 Golf MkII was a big part of my childhood, the provision of transport for thousands of trips for many years. I remember the grunt of the engine, the sports body and smell of the little inside ... but that may have been because of my grandfather rather than a specification Volkswagen intentional. My point is that the VW Golf has a wonderful heritage, and certainly has a place in the heart of anyone who has spent time in one. The question is how can a car be associated with an elderly relative is never considered good?

In most circles, the VW Golf is recognized as environmentally sound as the car industry is going to get without resorting to the poor performance of hybrids, electric cars, which only reach the end of your drive before Conking or bio likely to fuel you shovelling tons of bovine excrement in his car. But since when it has been deemed environmentally sound engine cool? It may be important for the future of the planet, but it is certainly totally uncool. When the tree huggers have seemed more than layabouts, tussled hair, issues of personal hygiene.

In recent years every car manufacturer has begun producing hot hatchbacks and elegant superminis Volkswagen has reduced almost to zero singularity. The Vauxhall Corsa, Seat Ibiza, Toyota Aygo and Fiat 500 have all jumped on the bandwagon and have begun to pull part of the market share of VW. Perhaps it is only through the reputation that has the Golf remains one of the leading brands in this increasingly saturated market. Therefore, as the commission of some anti-cold clangers seems golf has lost almost all their individuality.

To finish, the German Volkswagen lineage almost sucks the Fonz does it? German engineering can be efficient and reliable, but it rarely makes your knees tremble with joy, or reduced to tears with his great exuberance. In any case, the German engine you in straight and narrow, we must arrive on time and does not entertain or intrigue in the way. So why Golf is considered a cool car?

The answer is essentially a mystery, like Aurora Borealis or the Bermuda Triangle ... just a cool car. There is no logical reason or recognition of the VW Golf, it's just a natural phenomenon that even the harsh struggle that boffins to explain. The Golf is the equation of aero-elasticity of the automotive world, an enigma that continues to baffle and mystify.

The Golf is not the best looking car in its field, nor is it the cheapest or best performing, but for some inexplicable reason, remains one of the most popular, desirable and coolest cars available. I know that I personally choose throughout their range of competitive prices ... I will never be able to explain why.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:38 AM   0 Comments

The Vauxhall Van Range – A Great Alternative to the Transit

In recent years there was an enduring advertising campaign that stated, entirely inaccurately, that the Ford Transit was the backbone of Britain. Despite being a geological and geographical lie, one can’t deny the impact the Ford Transit had on businesses the length and breadth of Britain since it’s unveiling in 1965. The Ford Transit became so popular ‘Transit’ has evolved beyond a type of vehicle and has now become part of our lexicon. Many car manufacturers have tried in vain to get a piece of the lucrative white van man market, but have so far failed to make a solid, resounding impact. In recent years Vauxhall have thrown their hat into the ring and have been gaining favourable reviews from the automotive press. The question is; how do go about toppling the mighty Transit?

On paper, the people at Vauxhall have made a good start, currently offering five different models in their van range. The choices are Movano, Vivaro, Combo, Astravan and finally the Corsavan. The Movano is the daddy of the range, boasting a range of engines from 1.9 CDTi 82 bhp, right through to 3.0 CDTi 136 bhp. The larger engines all manage around 30 mpg, which isn’t too shabby in comparison with the competition.

Part of the Transit’s popularity came from its iconic looks, which have been altered over the years, but have remained recognisable as part of the fine Ford fleet. This is where Vauxhall’s efforts may falter slightly. The Movano and Vivaro, though both spacious and the very essence of practicality, lack any kind of aesthetic pleasure. To be completely honest, in red, the Movano looks a bit like Russ Abbott wearing a jimmy wig. The Vivaro, however, has a slightly confusing space-age design that is quite hard to describe. It is difficult to ascertain what Vauxhall were attempting to achieve with the Vivaro’s sloping windscreen and oddly shaped front-bumper and grill. First impressions suggest the vehicle was designed by Ming the Merciless.

That said, van drivers aren’t usually pieces of artwork themselves, so perhaps looks aren’t as paramount a concern as they are for your average car driver. What is important is practicality and performance; this is where the Vauxhall range really starts to impress. The Vivaro’s handling is excellent, even when carrying a heavy load and the driver and passenger comfort is superb for a van. The Vivaro’s turbo diesel engine uses a rail injection system that makes the van a considerably speedy mover as well.

The Vivaro, in particular, seems to be the van of choice from the Vauxhall range, having won the “Commercial Motors testers’ choice” award for 2004 and 2005. So the designers and engineers must be doing something right.

There is a sense of inevitability about attempting to infiltrate a market as sewn up as the one the Transit dominates. You can’t help but feel that the David and Goliath mentality will just result in thousands of unsold units sat in an industrial car park somewhere. This is a shame though, as Vauxhall have engineered genuinely good vans that deserve to command a larger proportion of the commercial vehicle market. It is unlikely that they will be able to knock the Transit off its perch (Ford had a 20 year head start after all), but with vehicles of this quality, Vauxhall should be able to at least rattle a few feathers.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:35 AM   0 Comments

What To Look For When Buying And Installing A Car Audio System

If you spend a lot of time in your car then you should be able to enjoy the experience with the help of a good audio system. In case you are wondering which system to buy, here is a brief list of things to consider when choosing and installing your car audio components.

First you need to know about the basic parts of any car audio system. If you don’t already have a CD player and radio receiver then this is the first component that you will need. The various makers of these devices include Kenwood, JVC, Alpine, Sony, Pioneer and Infinity. In an age when portable players such as Ipods and other mp3 players are popular check to see that they can be easily plugged into the system that you are buying.

Once you have chosen a basic device that will play your cds and mp3s and give you radio reception, you need to think about the speakers.

There are two basic types of speakers: full range speakers and component speaker. Full range speakers are all inclusive, that is they have all the components mounted together: tweeters for the highs, and woofers for the low bass sounds. If you are just replacing current factory installed speakers, then it is very convenient to buy a ready-to-use full range speaker.

However, if you wish to get the optimum quality of sound, then you can buy a component system. In these systems the woofer and tweeter are separate and you can install them in locations that will give you the most realistic, stereo sound. Component systems also use an external crossover. Crossovers are a network of filters, coils, and capacitors that directs specific frequency ranges to the appropriate speaker components. They are placed between the speaker and the amplifier.

The speaker components come in a variety of sizes ranging from 6.5 inches right up to 12 inches.

The amplifier is what gives power to the whole system. One model which I have been recommending to my customers is the JVC Palmer Series 520-Watt Amplifier. It is made by one the world’s leading developers and manufacturers of sophisticated mobile audio products and could be just what you need if you wish to give your car audio system that extra special sound that you have been yearning for.

It is important to match the various components especially the speakers and the amplifiers. If you are going to be using a very powerful external amplifier then you need to get speakers that can handle all that power.

If you know what you are looking for then you can go online and buy your components from an online electronics store. This will save you time and transportation expense, not to mention the tension and hassle that you may also find in a busy electronics store. However, if you are not so sure about what you need then it could be useful to drive to your nearest home electronics or department store and get some help from a specialist working in the store.

Whichever way you get it, a new car audio system will certainly reward you with hours of pleasure, and make driving in your car as pleasant as possible.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:35 AM   0 Comments

Rubber Molding Technology in Hybrid Vehicles

2008 saw gas prices climb to an all-time high. Indeed, on July 1, 2008, the national average price for a gallon of gasoline climbed to $4.087. It isn’t surprising then that hybrid vehicle sales also experienced an increase in popularity. What might be surprising is the use of rubber molding technology that is found in these fuel-saving and environmentally friendly vehicles.

Wikipedia defines a hybrid vehicle as “a vehicle that uses two or more distinct power sources to move the vehicle.” Because they are powered by at least one alternative to gas, hybrid automobiles were all the rage back when gas topped $4/gallon. Even now that the price at the pump is dropping, Americans are still drawn to these vehicles. They know all too well that another fuel crisis could be just around the corner, but they’re also sold on the eco-friendly design of hybrid autos.

One of the unique aspects that owners of hybrid vehicles might see in their 21st century modes of transportation is rubber molding components. In particular, Auto Answers recently noted that “most windshields have a rubber molding with a border on it that lies tightly against the frame. In cold weather, this rubber would contract slightly and it might pucker up a little just enough to catch the air flowing over it, causing it to buzz or vibrate. In warmer weather, the rubber expands and flattens out, causing the noise to go with it.” By taking “special care with the [rubber] molding material, any loose fitting problems that could create a vibration or other noise later” can be avoided.

A world leader in custom rubber molding and rubber-to-metal bonding can assist hybrid vehicle manufacturers in releasing the best possible product. That’s important in an industry that’s currently rife with financial problems, where hybrid models are one of only a very few bright spots.

Hundreds of different SPC-certified custom rubber parts are produced for companies throughout the United States, including those in the automobile industry. Hybrid auto manufacturers that are looking to launch a quality product should look to a leading manufacturer of custom molded rubber and rubber-to-metal bonded parts with a modern manufacturing plant that is staffed by personnel with many years of experience. A rubber molding specialist that offers compression, transfer and injection molding services is a mark of excellence and should be the type hybrid vehicle manufacturers seek out for a reliable source for high-quality rubber parts.

Some of the custom rubber molded parts hybrid vehicle manufacturers might consider standard installation on their automobiles are complex shaded parts that include pump impellers, gear shift boots for off road equipment, silicone steering column seals, control panel switch covers and gas pump nozzle gaskets. Relevant rubber-to-metal parts also include cylinder seals with Viton or high acrylic nitrile bonded to aluminum, brass, stainless steel or nylon, electric motor mounts with neoprene bonded to brass or cadmium plated steel, flapper valves with rubber bonded to cast aluminum, idler rollers with neoprene bonded to steel, air spring bumpers with high abrasive SBR bonded to anodyzed steel and square bonded center mounts.

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posted by auto shine @ 1:35 AM   0 Comments